Understanding the differences between aggregators and platforms matters for companies interacting with them and also regulators considering antitrust.
The Moat Map
The Moat Map describes the correlation between the degree of supplier differentiation and the externalization (or internalization) of a company’s network effect.
Defining Aggregators
Building on Aggregation Theory, this provides a precise definition of the characteristics of aggregators, and a classification system based on suppliers. Plus, how to think about aggregator regulation.
Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Both Apple’s strengths and weaknesses were on full display at its annual WWDC keynote; the HomePod is a perfect example.
Super Mario Run, Nintendo’s Bad Reviews, Apple’s App Store Failures
Super Mario Run is a great game that is getting bad reviews that are ultimately Apple’s fault. The company needs to make the App Store much more developer-friendly
Disney to Buy Part of MLBAM; Netflix, Comcast, and Verizon; Spotify’s Fruitless Antitrust Griping
Disney continues to invest in the future by buying part of MLBAM, while Comcast and Verizon settle into their roles as utilities. Plus, why Spotify’s antitrust complaints don’t make much sense, even if Apple isn’t being very fair.
Apple Makes Major Changes to App Store, The App Store and Apple’s Nature, Additional Notes
Apple made major changes to the App Store; in this double Daily Article I explain why they’re a big deal but not yet perfect, and how that demonstrates the difficulty of change.
SideCar’s “Innovation”, Facebook Stadium and Twitter’s Conundrum, Tidbits
SideCar feels that Uber was unfair, but the truth is the company didn’t understand that product matters more than technical expertise. Plus, why Twitter doesn’t have an natural acquirers, and several other tidbits from this week.
Selling Feelings
Distribution being free may have ruined old business models, but it allows businesses to get much closer to their customers and make money by meeting needs.
Malware Hits iOS, The Importance of the App Store, XcodeGhost: What Happened and What Now?
(Legitimate) iOS has been hit by malware for the first time. It’s a big deal because it gets at the heart of why the App Store is so important not just to Apple but to the entire industry. Plus, how on earth did this happen, and what will happen next?